Have you ever wondered how to contribute to scientific research while having fun and without extensive training? Citizen Science is for you! Hear briefly what citizen science is and how it's powerful, then dive into the iNaturalist biodiversity app that allows us all to upload photo observations of natural animals, plants, fungus, and other signs of life we see in our daily lives and on nature explorations. Then take 15 minutes to make observations in your own "slice of nature" while sheltering-in-place -- out your window, in your garden, or even the plants growing in sidewalk cracks or the fly in your kitchen -- before coming back to share your discoveries and ask your iNat related questions. Watch recorded event here: Citizen Science: Intro and iNaturalist April 10, 2020
Leader
Julie Wittmann, Community Naturalist Program Coordinator, Center for Environmental Inquiry, Sonoma State University. Julie's graduate research involved a citizen science project on amphibians and reptiles at Osborn Preserve and beyond, and she initiated our Osborn and Galbreath Preserve iNaturalist "projects."
Logistics
No previous experience or knowledge is required. This event is recommended for ages 10 and up, and families are invited to participate, but iNaturalist requires a parent's permission for children age 12 and under.
You will be required to create an iNaturalist account and install iNaturalist on your mobile device (if you have one) before attending this event. Instructions for this will be sent to you upon registration.
Zoom meeting details will be sent to you upon registration. If you have not used Zoom before, please allow time to download and install the application before the event. Please log-in a few minutes early, as it may take more than one attempt if servers are busy.
How to Sign Up
Register at the link below. Each participant should register separately. Registration is free.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.